Ex-Mexican governor accepts extradition from Guatemala

GUATEMALA CITY – A fugitive former governor of Mexico's Gulf coast state of Veracruz accepted on Tuesday extradition from Guatemala to face some corruption charges at home.

Javier Duarte's decision did not assure his extradition. Another hearing will be held in early July.

Duarte was captured in April in Guatemala, six months after resigning as governor of Veracruz.

He faces embezzlement and organized crime charges in Mexico. The hearing Tuesday involved a first extradition request on state charges, including abuse of authority, embezzlement and other charges.

Duarte's legal team said those state charges are baseless and politically motivated.

Duarte, who appeared in court smiling and sported a full beard, called the accusations "baseless, vague, imprecise and light-weight."

Extradition remains to be determined on a second set of charges, which allege that Duarte as governor embezzled millions and used much of the money to buy properties.

Duarte is one of three fugitive former Mexican governors arrested abroad recently. Italian authorities captured ex-Tamaulipas Gov. Tomas Yarrington in April, and last month former Gov. Roberto Borge of Quintana Roo state was arrested in Panama.